While some of the most recent LA Lakers trade rumors were based on Dwight Howard possibly moving to Los Angeles, and Steve Nash officially joining the team, a new story has developed involving NBA free agent Jodie Meeks.

There’s been NBA rumors about many players lately, some of which the Lakers have ended up acquiring. However, there’s news that a Jodie Meeks signing is currently a tough situation for LA. This has become reality as his agent has stated the 24-year-old won’t sign with any NBA team at the “veteran’s minimum.” Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak has noted he won’t use the team’s mid-level exception. So if Meeks is to remain in Los Angeles, either he and his agent have to budge, or the Lakers will have to. If not, Meeks may be finding a new destination to call his pro basketball home.

According to Bleacher Report, Meeks is among the best free agents left with a decent shot percentage behind the 3-point arc and free throw line. He’s considered one of the best shooters still available in NBA free agency, meaning if the Lakers don’t grab him, another needy team will. However, the LA Lakers have other options such as free agent Leandro Barbosa, who has shown his skills in Phoenix and Philadelphia. Either player would be a solid addition to an already solid team that features Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Paul Gasol, and Andrew Bynum.

With that in mind, the Lakers have other options, and don’t really need to play hardball with Meeks. Should he and his agent decide that LA isn’t for him, and they won’t accept their offer (which could put him in title contention), then the Lakers can easily acquire someone like Barbosa to add to their already star-studded lineup. Of course, they’d love having a guy named Dwight Howard in the middle, but for now they’ve still got one of the best rosters in the West.

Which player should Los Angeles go for in a trade or signing, Leandro Barbosa, or Jodie Meeks?

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